Hi, I am 7th grade technology teacher and am looking to try to incorporate some type of CNC into my classroom. Trying to decide what the best and most cost effective method would be between laser cutter or cnc router. Since I most likely won't get too much funding for this I have been looking into buildyourcnc.com scratch built plans kit and electronics kit. I have read some good and some bad on these forums about their machines. So is there a better option kit/plans/ or complete. I am really only looking to cut wood in smaller size right now.
For now I am trying to find the options that will give the lowest cost possible to present to administration. If I end up getting more support then expected I may start looking into more costly (higher quality) machines but for now I am looking for the best low cost option.
Basically I am looking for some input from you guys that have a lot more experience with these types of machines as to what you think could be the most beneficial in the classroom. I have worked with several cnc routers and mills and CAD programs through my schooling and would like to be to introduce my students to this technology that will continue to play a larger role in the future.
Thanks for any help or suggestions
-Matt